The inner light: an exploration of Easter spiritual texts

How do Eastern spiritual writings offer insight and illumination to contemporary readers in the West? We shall read and discuss texts in translation from numerous traditions, including Lao Tzu, Indian scriptures, Rumi and Hafiz.

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Key course information

Date
24/03/12

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23
Concession: £11

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HLT36

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

A wide ranging survey of the ways in which Far and Middle Eastern scriptures and poetry have explored and expressed the nature and consequences of spiritual aspiration. We shall consider and compare the thought and style of texts and poets from pre-history to the Middle Ages, and reflect on their significance for us. All texts will be studied in translation.

What topics will we cover?

We shall visit numerous traditions - including those of China, India and Sufi poetry - looking at poetic texts, scriptural and otherwise, in translation. We will focus on their evocation of the difficulties, rewards and perceptions of spiritual work, and how their insights may assist our own understanding and development.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Demonstrate understanding of many ways in which spiritual experience and understanding can be evoked.
Appreciate how texts reflect and project the traditions and faiths that have helped to form them.
Discuss how style and technique can contribute to the meaning and impact of texts.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You will need an enthusiasm for reading and discussing a range of texts in large and small groups. You will be willing and able to do some reading and preparation outside the class. You will be interested in listening to, and learning from, the responses of other students to the work discussed. You will have a commitment to developing your analytical skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Teacher explanation; group discussion.

Tutor Biography
Peter Brennan is a poet, and was for many years Head of English at The Latymer School, Edmonton. He founded Visionary Company courses in 2005, and is Editor-in-Chief of Perdika Press.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No. You will be provided with photocopies of the texts to be studied. Please bring a pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.